MUSKEGON, MI – A church hosted a soul food dinner Sunday to recognize African American history during Black History Month.

Bethesda Baptist Church family and friends took some time Sunday, Feb. 23 to gather and celebrate the past at a soul food dinner, featuring a variety of food and plenty of information on African American history.

“I’m grateful that we have people part of our congregation that have the energy and excitement to prepare the dinner,” said the Rev. Charles W. Poole, pastor of Bethesda Baptist Church.

Poole said that this month means a great deal to him and his prayer is that young people will understand the struggles in life, though not necessarily from a racial point of view.

There are certain things that are important to understand for a foundation of living, Poole said.

Across all the tables at the dinner in the auditorium of the church were cards with written facts about African American history. For example, the banjo was brought to America by slaves in the 17th century, according to one of the cards.

“We’re just so happy to put it on,” Charlene Burr, culinary adviser for Bethesda Baptist Church, said about the dinner.

The food that was served at the dinner represented African American history.

Deacon Al Nichols said that the dinner is something everyone at the church looks forward to.

The menu for the dinner included fried chicken, chitterlings and much more.